Honors in Religion

The preliminary prospectus, which is prepared in consultation with the advisor, must clearly indicate the research topic, its theoretical importance in the study of religion, and a methodology for addressing the topic. The formal prospectus must also include a bibliography. Approval of the formal prospectus by departmental faculty constitutes acceptance of the student's candidacy for honors. Copies of past proposals approved by the faculty are available in the department office. Students should contact the department coordinator, Lynn Brettler, to make arrangements to view this file.

Honors candidates will offer two presentations to the religion faculty as well as majors, minors, and other interested students. This is an opportunity for candidates to articulate the various components of his or her project, to anticipate possible limitations of his or her approach, and to consider questions and implications pertaining to his or her research. The department also regards it as an opportunity to convey expectations regarding honors projects to prospective majors and minors. The first presentation takes place on the Friday of the second week of the spring semester. The second presentation is scheduled just prior to the oral examination.

Assuming the research paper merits consideration for honors, an oral examination will be scheduled for the Friday during the reading period at the conclusion of the spring semester. Conducted by all members of the department faculty, the examination will last about one hour. Conversations will focus on issues germane to the research paper and its wider implications for the study of religion.

On the basis of the research paper, the oral examination, and course work, the departmental faculty will determine whether or not the student is to be granted: (a) no honors; (b) honors; (c) high honors.* The faculty considers past course work in religion only in those cases in which no clear consensus emerges on evaluating the honors paper and oral examinations. Candidates will be notified of their evaluation after all have completed their oral examinations.

*Criteria for Honors

Thesis is clear and does not duplicate existing literature
Argument is well-structured and persuasive
Sure grasp of relevant literature
Well prepared for oral exam 

Criteria for High Honors

In addition to above:
Mastery of relevant literature
Articulates a clear and compelling contribution to the study of religion
Evidences a clear understanding of the implications of the argument
Supplies rationales for method
Strong performance in the oral exam

Error-free copies of research papers evaluated at the honors level or better are to be deposited in the Hawthorne-Longfellow Library not later than 5:00 p.m. on the Friday before the last faculty meeting of the year. (The Registrar's Office sends guidelines for the specified form and deposit of honors papers in the Library to each candidate.)